Easy ways to save energy!

We would all like to save on utility costs! Reduce your energy to save money and to help the environment!
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the average family spends approximately $2000 per year on utility
bills alone. It’s easy to make your home run on less energy! Lower utility costs with these simple changes that most
homeowners can do themselves.

Why make your home more energy efficient?

• Financial incentives, such as tax break
• Saves money. A more energy efficient home cost less to run
• It reduces your impact on our environment

TIPS FOR REDUCING ENERGY CONSUMPTION

1. SUNLIGHT - Open the curtains on your south-facing windows during winter days to bring free heat into your
home. Close your window coverings when the sun goes down to keep the heat inside.

2. PROGRAMABLE THERMOSTAT- According to the U.S. Department of Energy, you can save about 10 percent per year on your heating bills by turning your thermostat down 10 to 15 degrees for eight hours. Install a programmable thermostat to automatically to reduce heating and cooling during the times when you are asleep or away.

3. ELECTRONICS - Disconnected unused appliances and electronics when not in use. As much as 23% of the
electricity consumed in U.S. homes is used by appliances and devices that are on "standby" when they are not being used. Try using a power strip for easy on and off. Use smart power strips to eliminate the problem of
phantom loads by shutting off the power to electronics when they are not in use.

4. LED BULBS - LED light bulb use up to 85 percent less energy to deliver the same amount to light.  They also
last three to 25 times longer than traditional bulbs.

5. APPLIANCES - When shopping for a new appliances, make sure they have an ENERGY STAR label. ENERGY
STAR-labeled means that they will typically use 20% less energy and save money.

6. HOME ENERGY ASSESSMENT - A home energy assessment helps determine where the house is losing energy and money. An energy assessment can include a whole house checkup and can show you problems. When
corrected, it can save you significant amounts of money over time.

7. GET A HUMIDIFIER TO ADD MOISTURE TO THE AIR  - The air inside your home can become very dry. Moist air feels warmer and holds heat better, so a humidifier can help you feel comfortable when your thermostat is set at a lower temperature.

8. CHANGE THE WAY YOU DO LAUNDRY

• Increase efficiency by waiting until you have a full load of clothes before doing laundry.
• Avoid using high-temperature settings when clothes are not very soiled. Water that is 140° F uses far more
  energy than 103° F for the warm-water setting, but 140° F isn’t that much more effective for getting clothes
  clean.
• Clean the lint trap every time before you use the dryer. Not only is excess lint a fire hazard, but it will
  prolong the amount of time required for your clothes to dry.
• Check and clean your dryer vent at least once a year. It will increase your dry efficiency and reduce your
  risk for fire.

Homeowners who take the initiative to make these changes usually discover that the energy savings are worth the
effort.

Resources: 

https://www.energystar.gov/buildings/facility-owners-and-managers/existing-buildings/save-energy